The Apple Watch is a versatile device that not only tracks your steps and controls your Apple iPhone but also keeps accurate time and offers a range of other functionalities. With the arrival of the slimmer Apple Watch Series 10, the future of Apple Watch gaming looks brighter than ever. While it's primarily known as a fantastic iPhone accessory for everyday use, it's also capable of running games to help you pass the time on your wrist.
We've compiled a list of the best mobile games for the Apple Watch to get you started. Surprisingly, all these games can be enjoyed right on your wrist, and they're also compatible with iPhone or iPad—or both. Most of the games listed here are free to download and play, with optional in-app purchases available. However, some are premium purchases, which are reasonably priced and won't break the bank.
### Star Duster
Experience a quick 80s retro LCD challenge with Star Duster, available for $2.99 on the Apple App Store. This game brings back the nostalgia of old school Nintendo Game & Watch and Tiger Electronics handhelds. With two game modes—one level-based and the other lives-based—you'll use the Digital Crown to catch falling space junk, reminiscent of the Atari classic Tempest. Star Duster is the prequel to the mobile game Star Jolt and can also be played on Apple iPhone and Apple iMessage.
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 7.1 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: $2.99
### Lifeline: Beside You in Time
For $3.99, Lifeline: Beside You in Time offers a text-based adventure where you guide an astronaut, Taylor, to safety from a black hole. Your decisions shape the story, which branches off into various directions. This engaging narrative game is also available on iPhone and iPad, ensuring you never miss a moment of the unfolding story.
Apple Watch: Series 3-Series 10 | watchOS: 6 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 6s or later, SE | Price: $3.99
### Dare the Monkey: Go Bananas!
Despite the Apple Watch's small display size, up to 49mm with the Apple Watch Ultra, Dare the Monkey: Go Bananas! is a thrilling one-tap action-platformer. Play as a monkey navigating through a jungle, dodging traps and enemies. The game's layered graphics and "extremely addictive" and "super casual" gameplay make it a standout. It's free with in-app purchases and also available on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and iMessage.
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 3 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
### Chess - Play & Learn
Enjoy the classic game of Chess on your Apple Watch. This free game allows you to play on-the-go and is cross-platform with the iPad, offering a larger playing field. Challenge players of any skill level from around the world, all from the convenience of your wrist.
Apple Watch: Series 5-Series 10 | watchOS: 4 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 6s or later, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
### Octopuz
Boost your memory and train your brain with Octopuz, a memory-based game where you must match design patterns within a time limit. As you progress, the designs become more complex, making for a challenging and rewarding experience. Available for free (with in-app purchases) on Apple Watch, iPhone, and iPad.
Apple Watch: Series 1-Series 10 and SE| watchOS: 4 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 4s-10, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
### Arcadia - Arcade Watch Games
For $1.99, Arcadia! offers a collection of over 20 retro 8-bit game clones, including Snake, Galaga, OutRun, Pong, and Breakout. Enjoy classic gaming on your wrist without ads, in-app purchases, or data tracking. The game is also available on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV.
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 8 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: $1.99
### Infinity Loop: Blueprints
Infinity Loop: Blueprints is a free-to-play puzzle game where you rotate pieces to create an infinity loop. As you advance, the puzzles become more challenging. The game also includes a "Creative Lounge" mode for designing and sharing your own puzzles with the community. Available on iPhone and iPad as well.
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 4.3 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
### Jupiter Attack
At $1.99, Jupiter Attack offers a sci-fi shooting experience where you defend Earth from alien invaders as a spaceship. Collect power-ups to enhance your weapons throughout the game. This title is part of the Space Watch Trilogy, alongside Kepler Attack and Asteroid Commando, with a bundle available for $3.
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 8.7 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: $1.99
### Jellyfish Tap
Similar to Flappy Bird and Dinosaur Game, Jellyfish Tap is a simple yet challenging tap-and-jump game. Navigate a jellyfish through an underwater world, dodging vertical structures. The game increases in speed and difficulty as you progress. It's free with in-app purchases and available on iPhone and iPad.
Apple Watch: Series 1-Series 10 and SE | watchOS: 6 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 4s-6s, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
### Ping Pong - Watch Retro Game
Enjoy the classic Pong and four other retro games with Ping Pong: Watch Retro Game. Use the Apple Watch's Digital Crown to control the paddles and customize the game with different colors and designs. It's free to play with in-app purchases and also available on iPhone.
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 4.3 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
### Tiny Armies
For less than a dollar, Tiny Armies offers a turn-based tactical and strategy game. Swipe to defeat enemies across various terrains like lakes, mountains, and forests. Play solo or challenge a friend via iMessage, with the game also available on iPhone and iPad.
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 3 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: $0.99
### Rules!
Rules! is a fast-paced puzzle game where you must follow a rule to clear each level. As you advance, more rules are added, increasing the complexity. Available for $2.99, this game challenges your memory and is also compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iMessage.
Apple Watch: Series 1-Series 10 and SE | watchOS: 8.3 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 4s-6s, SE | Price: $2.99
The Apple Watch is not only great for quick glances at information but also for playing quick games on the go. With hundreds of games available on the Apple App Store, most of which are also compatible with iPhone, you can enjoy gaming without needing to pull out your smartphone.
When choosing Apple Watch games, consider the following factors:
Knowing your Apple Watch model is crucial. If you have a newer model running watchOS 10, such as Series 4 or later, you'll have access to all compatible games. However, older models like the Series 3, which runs watchOS 6, may have limited options. Check the model number printed at the bottom of your Apple Watch to confirm.
Additionally, ensure your iPhone is compatible. For watchOS 10, you'll need an iPhone XS or later, while watchOS 6 is compatible with iPhone 4s through 6s. The Apple Watch SE and iPhone SE (second gen onward) should be current with watchOS 10 and iOS 18, respectively.
With up to 64GB of storage, the Apple Watch has limited space, but most games are small and won't take up much room. Keep this in mind, especially if you have an older model with less storage, like the Series 4 with 16GB.
Many Apple Watch games are free to download, but they may offer in-app purchases for additional content or an ad-free experience. Some premium games are also available at reasonable prices.
Ultimately, choose games that look fun or challenging. Apple Watch games are designed to be quick and easy to learn, offering a new challenge every time you play.
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